Salesforce founder Marc Benioff has recently reassessed his position regarding the deployment of National Guard troops to San Francisco, a topic he addressed just ahead of his company’s high-profile “Dreamforce” conference. During an interview with the New York Times, Benioff initially welcomed the idea, stating that the troops could assist in combating crime in the city. His comments coincided with President Donald Trump’s controversial decision to send National Guard members to cities like Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., ostensibly to address crime and immigration issues.
In light of these remarks, local officials quickly voiced their opposition. San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins condemned the suggestion, taking to social media to express her belief that such actions by the federal government constitute a form of “government-sponsored violence.” Jenkins emphasized her commitment to protecting residents from unlawful actions by law enforcement and warned against any excessive measures that could jeopardize community safety.
The city’s leadership, including Mayor Daniel Lurie, defended the local law enforcement agencies by reporting a significant 30 percent decrease in crime rates. Lurie expressed confidence in the San Francisco Police Department and sheriff’s office to maintain order during the upcoming Dreamforce event and highlighted the recent recruitment of more officers, marking a vital turning point in the city’s public safety efforts.
In response to the National Guard discussion over the weekend, Lurie reiterated his faith in local policing. “Local law enforcement knows how to police here in San Francisco. They know how to protect our citizens and our conference-goers,” he stated.
Benioff later took to social media to clarify his stance, indicating a preference for collaboration between city, state, and federal resources rather than a military solution. He underlined that for the safety of Dreamforce’s 50,000 attendees, Salesforce employs hundreds of law enforcement professionals annually, advocating for increased resources to ensure consistent safety for residents throughout the year.
This situation reflects a growing tension between local officials and federal directives while showcasing the city’s ongoing commitment to public safety. As San Francisco endeavors to navigate its security challenges, leadership continues to emphasize the importance of local governance and community trust. The shift in Benioff’s messaging illustrates the nuanced dynamics at play, calling for collaborative approaches to enhance safety and maintain public confidence.